NO one doubts that seeing drugs on the city streets is disgusting, and action needs to be taken.

But it is how to stop it where the debate usually can be found.

Some will argue there should be no tolerance, and drug users should be punished for leaving dangerous needles. The consequences of a curious child finding them is of course a nightmare.

But Jonathan Sutton, chief executive of St Paul’s Hostel, makes the case that drugs on the streets is a knock on effect from users not getting the help they need.

Simply, if you help someone get off the drugs there won't be needles there in the first place.

The criminal gangs bringing drugs into our city, and Worcestershire, are the real issue here. The police, often underresourced, are doing all they can to stop them bringing the drugs to city streets. Praise too should go to council's street cleaning team who are quick to clean up needles. They can't be everywhere though so if we see needles, we should report them to officials. That can be done easily by calling them on 01905 722233.